Corroded Wheel Locks: Is this normal or safe?

[Xeon]

I have now ordered four different sets of Toyota Wheel Locks for my 2003 4Runner from three different vendors, and each lock has been rusted on the inside. I am beginning to believe that they may ALL be like that. I would be interested in knowing if others also have ones that are in similar condition.

At first glance they appear in good enough shape. But take a flashlight and shine it into the shaft and you will see substantial rust and corrosion, some even on the threads. Then compare it to the interior of one of your other lug nuts and you will see what I mean.

Toyota says that the "Locks are made of hardened steel with triple nickel OR zinc coating to prevent corrosion." Yet there appears to be corrosion within the metal. I have always heard that rust destroys the integrity of the metal and that it spreads over time, even to adjacent surfaces. I can think of no other greater area where I would want to maintain structural integrity then with respect to the wheels.

How many others feel uncomfortable driving with rusted wheel locks? Is this normal for wheel locks? Is it really safe?

 

[Hitman]

I'm not sure who the vendor is that supplies Toyota with the OEM wheel locks, but if you go and buy a set of McGard wheel locks, they will be the last set you ever have to buy.

McGard has a lifetime warranty on their wheel locks.... even if they just begin to rust.

 

[toyota_speed]

I'm Running Gorilla Wheel Locks

Fantastic Lock and I think I paid 15.00 for them. They have 3 styles of wheel locks and I chose the one with a protective spinning sleeve so you can grab them with a vice grip or pipe wrench. I couldn't be happier.

Gorilla Wheel Locks

 

[Xeon]

I'm not sure who the vendor is that supplies Toyota with the OEM wheel locks, but if you go and buy a set of McGard wheel locks, they will be the last set you ever have to buy.

McGard has a lifetime warranty on their wheel locks.... even if they just begin to rust.

Well, the OEM Toyota Wheel Locks ARE McGard. That much I know for sure. However, they are already rusted in the package and this is the fourth set from three different vendors that I have received in the exact same condition. O.K., good, maybe I can get the manufacturer to replace them free, but with what? Probably another rusted set. I'd like to hear from other folks on this. Is it dangerous (even in the slightest way) to use them when they are rusted on the inside?

 

[greasefingers]

If it bothers you then lubricate the inside with a silicone spray using the little red plastic tube thingie that comes with WD-40. I tossed mine in the trash. I hate wheel locks. It

 

[Xeon]

If it bothers you then lubricate the inside with a silicone spray using the little red plastic tube thingie that comes with WD-40. I tossed mine in the trash. I hate wheel locks. It

 

[TRD04RUNNER]

I hate wheel locks. It

 

[Xeon]

Gorilla Wheel Locks

I have decided to send the Toyota (McGard) Wheel Locks back, since I believe that they are all rusted on the inside regardless of where one purchases them from. And I have heard nothing different from forum members.

I am now interested in the Gorilla Locks. Where would be the best place to purchase these, and what size and style should I get. I am really confused about the different styles.

Thanks

 

[linhsy]

Do we have a special key to unscrew these wheel locks?

Yesterday, I went to Shell Station to get a safety inspection on my 4Runner. After 15 minutes, the mechanic asked me if I have a key to open my wheel locks. I haven't open the wheel nuts without going to a toyota dealer before. So, I told him I know I have wheel locks on my 4runner but I'm not aware that I have a special key to unscrew them. after another 40 minutes, he did manage to unscrew them. With what key? I don't know since I was in a hurry to ask him.

Do we have a special key to unscrew these wheel locks?

Thanks!

 

[greasefingers]

Yes it

 

[linhsy]

Thanks greasefingers,

I sure will try it out although the tire is kind of big for me.